"I do not believe that any city in America possesses an orchestra supported on such a city-wide basis, and with a plan of operation which will bring the group so intimately into contact with the city's inhabitants."

--George EastmanCivic Orchestra News, September 1929

Our Music, Our Community

Enriching the community through music has been a top priority of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra since its founding in 1922. George Eastman, founder of Eastman Kodak Company and the world-renowned Eastman School of Music, believed that all Rochester residents could experience musical learning throughout their lives.

This dedication to life-long musical engagement continues today. Each season, the RPO presents nearly 50 concerts and more than 200 related events that serve a diverse population totaling approximately 100,000 children and adults. Our programs are comprehensive in their content and most are offered free of charge.

Members of the Rochester Philharmonic League serve as in-school docents and escorts for Education concerts and sponsor the Young Artist Auditions program, appreciation events for the RPO Orchestra and Staff, and fundraising.